"It is fundamental to show children that one loves them and really wants to help them. The rest goes automatically. It is also a work of justice towards these children whose physical, intellectual and moral development is jeopardized by a life without affection, without guidance, without constraint, without obligation. The street cannot educate in any way." Father Simon

Here you will find news regarding Timkatec, and the American Friends of Timkatec, ordered by date, with the most recent news items always at the top.

Latest Friends of Timkatec News

September 2008 Friends of Timkatec News

Haiti and Timkatec - Triumphs and tribulations

The Tribulations

Haiti is in turmoil as it tries to recover from 4 terrible storms in three weeks. Information on total casualties is still sketchy with some reports saying up to 1000 lost their life while others report 300. What is sure is that Haiti's infrastructure, already the most decrepit in the Western Hemisphere has been heavily damaged and the main food growing areas of the country are estimated to have lost 80% of the harvest on land which is now inundated. The challenge is huge.

The friends of Timkatec have been in constant contact with Father Simon who reports that the structures at Timkatec came through well and classes have started with 183 students registered. However, he advises that the costs have taken a huge jump. Food, electricity, transportation and fuel and all of the basic necessities in a county that must import most of its needs.

The People of Gonaives wait on roofs and wade through the flood looking for help

We are committed to help. We know that Father Simon is a good steward of resources and we have complete and detailed budgets for the schools. I spoke to Mrs. Manigat who is in constant touch with Father Simon. She advised me that their stocks of supplies are good for a few days but they are deeply concerned about their ability to replenish food supplies and the cost to do so.

She estimates that Timkatec's food and supply budget will increase by 40% 50 resident orphans, and another 250 day students depend on our support in the difficult time.

Streets are impassible for vehicles so people wade or swim searching for food and drinking water

We have all been affected by the storms; but in Haiti, they were hit by all four, FAY, GUSTAV, HANNA and IKE with torrential rains and the catastrophic results you see above. Roads washed away, bridges down , the limited service available no longer functioning and the agricultural heart of Haiti destroyed. No food or potable water. A tragedy just 4 years after JEANNE in 2004 killed 3000 and destroyed the homes of 200,000. CRS is a leader in aid in and Haiti and works closely with us and Father Simon

The Triumphs

The first Graduates of Timkatec 2, June 25, 2008

I am also showing pictures of a happier time when I attended the first Graduation of students from Timkatec 2 in June. These graduations were greatly celebrated with 6 priest concelebrating the Mass and over 400 people there to join in this joyful occasion. Please understand that in Haiti only 15% of children receive a basic Primary education, so for 15 boys to graduate from their 2-year technical training was a huge event.

This was a wonderful celebration of success under enormous difficuluties. I was Named Godfather and Marie Manigat Godmother of Timkatec 2 and we presented the Diplomas.

It is your consistent help to Father Simon and Timkatec that has made all of this possible. Less than 5 years ago, the Timkatec Catholic Trade Training School was only a dream. Now, we have a new building, almost 200 students, a staff of 17, and Father estimates in 2009 we will have 40 graduating with 60 in 2010.

Mrs Manigat Godmother of Timkatec 2 and the Lauraete

Please continue your strong support. All funds are distributed through CRS Haiti, and the Friends of Timkatec in America match All Souls donations 100% and also cover all expenses.

Patrick O'Shea at Timkatec 1. The 300 Square foot dormitory is shared by 18 –bunk beds and shelves for clothes. But, safe and dry, with food daily, an education and firm direction by Father Simon and staff